Best Dispersed Camping near Charlevoix, MI
Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers backcountry camping opportunities about 45 minutes south of Charlevoix. The primitive sites are situated around several lakes with clear water, providing secluded camping experiences in a wooded setting. Campsites require a short hike from the parking area, typically 10-15 minutes along marked trails. Basic vault toilets are available, but no drinking water or other amenities are provided.
Access can be challenging as several campers note confusion finding the actual sites. One camper shared, "You park in this small lot with a yellow gate that is in-front of the trail and then walk down for about 10 min until you see a smaller trail to left follow that down and you will see the campsites!" Castle Rock Ponds provides another remote option north of Charlevoix in the Upper Peninsula, accessible via a well-maintained gravel road suitable for standard vehicles. This area features flat parking spaces around the ponds with no facilities. Both locations allow campfires, though Sand Lakes requires visitors to process their own firewood from fallen timber.
